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CPU and Clarksdale Celebrate Public Power Week Oct. 6-12

Local control means local solutions—with reliability, affordability, and community focus

Clarksdale Public Utilities is joining more than 2,000 community-owned electric utilities nationwide to celebrate Public Power Week October 6–12. This annual observance highlights the enduring benefits of public power—locally controlled utilities that prioritize customers over profits, invest in their communities and deliver reliable, affordable service.

“For more than 120 years, CPU has served Clarksdale with a clear mission: put the community first,” said Curtis D. Boschert, CPU general manager. “Because we’re local, we’re able to make decisions that reflect the unique needs and values of Clarksdale—not what’s best for a boardroom hundreds of miles away.”

That local control is more than just a slogan—it translates into measurable benefits for customers. CPU consistently ranks among the top performers in reliability statewide. Its customer-first approach also drives innovation and community-focused initiatives like the New Generations initiative, launched in 2024 to improve reliability, embrace new technologies, and deepen community partnerships.

Public power means being prepared—whether it's restoring service after storms or helping customers manage their utility usage. CPU’s employees are trained and ready to respond 24/7, ensuring quick, professional service whenever it’s needed.

CPU also works year-round to help customers make the most of their energy dollars. Whether through energy-efficiency tips, flexible payment options, or easy-to-use online account tools, the utility is committed to delivering value beyond the meter.

“Our team takes great pride in helping this community thrive,” Boschert said. “Every CPU employee plays a role in making sure Clarksdale has safe, dependable, and affordable electric and water service. That’s the promise of public power—and it’s a promise we’re proud to keep.”

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving 6,800 customers in Clarksdale, Miss. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.

Public Power Week is an annual national observance coordinated by the American Public Power Association. The American Public Power Association is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. The Association represents public power before the federal government to protect the interests of the more than 49 million people that public power utilities serve, and the 93,000 people they employ. It advocates and advises on electricity policy, technology, trends, training, and operations. Its members strengthen their communities by providing superior service, engaging citizens, and instilling pride in community-owned power. Learn more at publicpower.org.